FAQ
Filters & specs
Why pleated synthetic filters over fiberglass?
Fiberglass filters are "safety nets for rocks." Our pleated synthetic media uses an electrostatic charge to trap microscopic particles like soot, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores that fiberglass passes straight through. A MERV 8 pleated filter captures roughly 5x more particulate by mass than a $3 blue fiberglass filter.
What is the electrostatic advantage?
The synthetic fibers in our filters carry a static charge that attracts and holds airborne particles even smaller than the mechanical pore size of the media. It's the same principle as a magnet for dust. The charge also helps resist bacterial and mold growth on the filter surface.
Can you handle custom or odd filter sizes?
Yes. Our manufacturing partner hand-crafts any fractional or non-standard size — 18x24x1, 19.5x23.5x1, 17x21x1, whatever your return air slot actually measures. Custom-size orders ship within 2–7 business days directly from the factory floor. Custom sizes are final-sale (see Refund Policy).
What's the difference between the Ironside protection tiers?
We organize the full MERV catalog into protection tiers so you can pick at the right level without reading a textbook:
- Everyday Defense (MERV 6–8) — Standard residential homes, no pets, no smokers.
- Allergy & Pet (MERV 10–12) — Pet owners, allergy sufferers, modern high-efficiency systems.
- Maximum Protection (MERV 13–16) — Hospital-grade filtration, wildfire smoke zones, severe allergies, asthma. For odors, add Odor & Smoke (activated carbon).
If you're unsure, the Find My Filter tool walks you through it in three questions.
What MERV rating do I actually need?
MERV 8 is the residential baseline. If you have pets, allergies, or a modern HVAC system (variable-speed blower), step up to MERV 11. If anyone in your home has asthma, COPD, or post-COVID respiratory sensitivity, or if you live in a wildfire zone, go MERV 13.
Do not install MERV 14+ unless your HVAC system is explicitly rated for it. Higher MERV means more static pressure — the wrong filter can damage a system that wasn't designed for it.
Will a high-MERV filter restrict airflow and damage my HVAC?
Only if the system isn't designed for it. Modern residential systems built after 2010 generally handle MERV 11 without issue and most handle MERV 13. Older systems, especially those with single-stage blowers, can struggle above MERV 11. If you don't know, start at MERV 8–11 and watch for changes in airflow or system run time. The Find My Filter tool accounts for this.
Are these really made in the USA?
Yes. Every Ironside filter is manufactured in the United States by our partner facility. The media is sourced domestically. The wire backing is galvanized in the U.S. We don't relabel imported filters.
Shipping
How fast do orders ship?
Standard sizes ship within 1 business day. Custom and fractional sizes ship in 2–7 business days. Transit time is 3–8 business days for most U.S. destinations. See the full breakdown in our Shipping Policy.
Is shipping free?
No — we charge one honest flat rate: $14.95 for 1″ and 2″ filters and $24.95 for 4″+ deep filters, the same whether you order 1, 2 or 3 packs. Oversize orders ship by weight at checkout.
Do you ship to Alaska, Hawaii, APO/FPO, or PO Boxes?
Yes to all four. Transit times are longer — see the Shipping Policy.
Do you ship internationally?
Not currently.
My tracking says delivered but my filter isn't here. Now what?
Wait 48 hours — carriers sometimes scan early. If it hasn't arrived after that, email support@getironside.com with your order number. We file a claim and ship a replacement at no cost.
What if my filter arrives damaged?
Photo the box and the filter before discarding anything, then email the photo to support@getironside.com within 7 days of delivery. We replace or refund — your choice.
Returns
What's your return policy?
30-day return window on unused filters in original packaging. Customer pays return shipping on standard returns. Ironside pays on defects, wrong sizes shipped, or our errors. Full details in our Refund Policy.
Can I return a filter I've already installed?
Only if it's defective. Used or installed filters in working condition are not eligible for return.
How do I start a return?
Email support@getironside.com with your order number. We send you an RMA number and the return address within 1 business day.
Account & technical
Do I need an account to order?
No. Guest checkout works for one-time orders. An account makes reordering and tracking faster.
I forgot my password.
Use the "Forgot password" link on the login page. If that doesn't work, email support@getironside.com.
Why does the packaging look industrial instead of glossy retail?
We prioritize protection over presentation. Your order ships in factory-spec containers to make sure medical-grade filters aren't crushed in transit. The savings on packaging stay in the product.
How long should an Ironside filter last?
90 days for most homes is the right cadence. Pets, smokers, or wildfire zones — replace every 30–60 days. A filter that's still white after 90 days probably isn't sealing properly; email us a photo and we'll diagnose.
Wholesale & professional
Do you sell to HVAC contractors?
Yes. See our Wholesale page for partner pricing tiers, direct-to-jobsite delivery, and the application form.
Can I get a W-9 or a resale certificate processed?
Yes, both are part of wholesale onboarding. Email support@getironside.com with "Wholesale paperwork" in the subject line.